THE SPORT IN AMERICA

Sport in the USA was, until the mid-twentieth century, relatively isolated from

National and international events. It had a provincial and minority image, although

it did provide many Americans with team identification and relief from the

pressures of everyday life.

US sports are taken very seriously by some people and are large commercial

businesses for others. On some levels, many Americans are obsessively involved

with winning and money, but others may still see sport as a wholesome and

positive means of enriching their lives, are highly involved in their sports as

participants and spectators and are dedicated to the success of their particular

teams.

A significant development in April 1996 was the

inaugural match in Major League Soccer (MLS), which marked America's latest

attempt to introduce a professional soccer league. Earlier attempts had failed,

but it was hoped that the 1994 World Cup held in the USA would generate

new enthusiasm. It is suggested that the growth of soccer has been America's

silent sporting revolution.

Although some professional and college sports such as football, ice hockey

and boxing are tough action games, American sports do not suffer the same

amount of spectator violence as some other countries' sports. Events such as

baseball and football can still be family outings. They have a carnival atmosphere

and a large element of show business.

There is extensive media coverage of sports by newspapers and television,

which reflects the popularity and commercial standing of sports in the USA. 

Professional baseball, basketball and football are sports and big businesses

in which team-owners virtually control the players and realize their assets,

investments and profits as players are bought and sold. In the case of baseball,

the rules have been changed to allow players greater freedom.

There is a tendency in American sports to an almost obsessive competitiveness.

As they have become more profit oriented, success has become paramount

and the importance of winning for participants and owners at all levels is

considerable. Critics feel that this attitude has detracted from the traditional spirit

of teamwork and playing games for fun.

 Increased commercialization of college sports has also occurred. Outstanding high-school athletes receive scholarships to enable them to goto college or university, where sports are an essential part of the educational program.